This FAQ section provides general educational information about acne and its treatments. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Managing acne doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right treatment plan, consistent follow-up, and timely adjustments, you can achieve clear, healthy skin. Acne often improves with a stepwise approach, starting with milder treatments and escalating as needed. However, many patients struggle with improper treatment approaches, which can delay results or even worsen acne.
Common Mistakes in Acne Treatment
Skipping Maintenance Therapy: Stopping all treatments once acne clears, leading to relapses.
Over-Relying on Antibiotics: Using antibiotics only during flares without a maintenance plan.
Avoiding Benzoyl Peroxide: Not combining antibiotics with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance.
Switching Treatments Too Soon: Changing therapies before the recommended 8–12 weeks.
Inconsistent Skincare Routine: Missing applications or using harsh products that irritate skin.
Not Escalating Treatment: Allowing mild acne to progress to moderate or severe stages.
Neglecting Hormonal Therapy: Ignoring hormonal options for persistent hormonal acne.
Skipping Follow-Ups: Missing check-ins with a TeleTest physician for treatment adjustments.
Avoiding these pitfalls and following a structured treatment plan ensures better control of your acne.
Prescriptions TeleTest Provides
Below is a comprehensive list of treatments TeleTest physicians prescribe. We do not initiate Accutane at this time.
Category
Active Ingredient
Brand Names
Retinoids
Tretinoin (0.025%, 0.05%, 0.10%)
Retin-A, Stieva-A
Adapalene (0.1%, 0.3%)
Differin, TactuPump, TactuPump Forte
Tazarotene (0.05%, 0.1%)
Tazorac
Antibacterial Agents
Clindamycin (1%)
Erythromycin (2%)
Benzoyl Peroxide Products
Benzoyl Peroxide (10%)
Benzoyl Peroxide + Adapalene
Epiduo, Epiduo Forte
Benzoyl Peroxide + Clindamycin`
Benzaclin, Clindoxyl
Hormonal Treatments
Clascoterone (1%)
Winlevi`
Spironolactone (oral)
Combined Oral Contraceptives
Alesse, Yaz, Diane-35, Tri-Cyclen
Anti-inflammatory Agents
Azelaic Acid (15%)
Finacea
Combination Retinoid Products
Tretinoin + Clindamycin
Biacna
Understanding Acne
What is acne, and what causes it?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles under the skin become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This leads to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or cysts. The main factors causing acne include:
Excess oil production: Sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, clogging pores.
Clogged pores: Dead skin cells build up, trapping sebum and bacteria.
Bacterial growth: Acne-causing bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, multiply in clogged pores, causing inflammation.
Inflammation: The body’s immune response to bacteria causes redness and swelling.
Acne most commonly affects the face, chest, back, and shoulders—areas with the highest concentration of sebaceous glands. While it is not life-threatening, acne can impact self-esteem and sometimes leave scars if untreated.
How common is acne, and who gets it?
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting up to 85% of people at some point in their lives. While it is most prevalent during adolescence due to hormonal changes, it can also affect adults, especially women, who may experience hormonal fluctuations from menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
In teenagers, acne typically presents as oily skin, blackheads, and whiteheads. In adults, acne often manifests as deeper, inflamed pimples or nodules, particularly along the jawline. Acne can also be triggered by stress, diet, medications, and environmental factors, making it a concern for people of all ages.
Is acne only a problem for teenagers, or can adults get it too?
Acne is often associated with teenagers, but it’s not limited to adolescence. While hormonal changes during puberty make teens more prone to breakouts, adults, particularly women, can develop acne later in life. Known as adult-onset acne, it is commonly triggered by hormonal imbalances, such as those related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or menopause.
Adult acne tends to appear on the lower face, jawline, and neck, often as painful cysts or nodules. Stress, diet, and certain medications can also contribute to adult acne. Fortunately, effective treatments exist for all age groups, ranging from over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide to prescription medications.
What are blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples?
These are the primary types of acne lesions:
Blackheads: Open pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The black color is due to oxidation, not dirt.
Whiteheads: Closed pores clogged with oil and dead skin, forming small, white bumps under the skin.
Pimples: Inflamed lesions, often red and swollen, caused by bacterial growth in clogged pores.
Each type requires targeted treatment. Blackheads and whiteheads often respond well to benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, while inflamed pimples may need additional therapies, like topical antibiotics.
How do hormones affect acne?
Hormones play a significant role in acne development. Androgens, a type of hormone, increase during puberty and stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, can clog pores and lead to acne.
In adults, hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger breakouts. Women with hormonal conditions like PCOS are especially prone to acne. Hormonal treatments, such as oral contraceptives or spironolactone, can help manage acne by regulating androgen levels. Understanding hormonal influences allows for targeted treatments to balance the skin.
Identifying Your Acne Severity
What is mild acne, and how can I treat it?
Mild acne involves a small number of blackheads, whiteheads, and occasional pimples, primarily on the face. It doesn’t cause significant redness, pain, or inflammation. These breakouts are often limited to specific areas, such as the forehead, nose, or chin, and do not spread extensively.
Treatment Tips:
Start with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) products, which are effective at reducing bacteria and unclogging pores. Look for strengths of 2.5%–5% available over the counter.
Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser and apply BPO once daily, increasing to twice daily if tolerated.
Avoid harsh scrubs or overly drying products, as they can irritate the skin.
Mild acne typically improves with consistent treatment over 8–12 weeks. If it doesn’t, consult a TeleTest physician for additional options like topical retinoids.
How can I tell if my acne is moderate, and what treatments are available?
Moderate acne involves more frequent breakouts, including:
Red, inflamed pimples (papules)
Pus-filled pimples (pustules)
Acne spreading to areas like the chest and back
Moderate acne often has noticeable redness and may cause mild discomfort.
Treatment Tips:
Combine benzoyl peroxide with a prescription topical retinoid (e.g., adapalene) or a topical antibiotic (e.g., clindamycin).
If breakouts persist or are widespread, oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) may be added for 3–6 months.
Women with hormonal acne can benefit from oral contraceptives or spironolactone.
It’s important to treat moderate acne promptly to prevent progression to severe acne or scarring.
What does severe acne look like, and why is it important to treat it early?
Severe acne is characterized by:
Large, painful nodules or cysts
Extensive redness and inflammation
Breakouts covering multiple areas (face, chest, back, or shoulders)
A higher risk of permanent scarring
Severe acne often causes emotional distress and requires medical attention.
Treatment Tips:
Severe acne usually requires a combination of oral antibiotics and topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and a retinoid.
For women, hormonal treatments like oral contraceptives or spironolactone can be effective.
If unresponsive to these therapies, isotretinoin may be prescribed by a dermatologist.
How does acne severity affect the choice of treatments?
The severity of acne determines the intensity of the treatment approach:
Mild acne: Start with over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide.
Moderate acne: Combine benzoyl peroxide with prescription retinoids or antibiotics. Oral antibiotics or hormonal therapies may be added if needed.
Severe acne: Requires stronger interventions, including oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin under medical supervision.
Can I treat acne on my own, or should I see a doctor?
You can treat mild acne on your own with benzoyl peroxide and a consistent skincare routine. However, you should consult a TeleTest physician if:
Acne doesn’t improve after 8–12 weeks of treatment.
Breakouts cause significant redness, pain, or scarring.
You suspect hormonal factors are contributing to your acne.
Early medical intervention for moderate to severe acne can make a significant difference.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options
Is benzoyl peroxide the only OTC treatment for acne?
Yes, benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is one of the most effective and widely available over-the-counter treatments for acne. It works by killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and unclogging pores. Unlike other active ingredients, such as salicylic acid or sulfur, which may be available in some markets, benzoyl peroxide is often the primary OTC option for managing acne in most settings.
You can find benzoyl peroxide in various forms, including washes, creams, and gels, in concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%. For beginners, starting with a lower concentration (2.5%-5%) is recommended to minimize irritation.
How do I use benzoyl peroxide effectively?
Using benzoyl peroxide effectively involves the following steps:
Start Slowly: Apply a small amount (pea-sized) once daily to clean, dry skin. Gradually increase to twice daily as your skin adjusts.
Choose the Right Concentration: Begin with 2.5% to reduce the risk of irritation, then consider moving up to 5% if tolerated.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Keep BPO away from your eyes, mouth, and any broken skin.
Moisturize: Benzoyl peroxide can dry out your skin. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain hydration.
Be Patient: Results may take 4-6 weeks.
Can I use benzoyl peroxide with other products?
Yes, benzoyl peroxide can be combined with other products, but caution is necessary to avoid irritation.
Compatible Combinations: Use benzoyl peroxide alongside moisturizers and sunscreens labeled “non-comedogenic.”
Avoid Mixing Active Ingredients: Do not combine BPO with other exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid without medical advice.
Use Retinoids Separately: If using a prescription retinoid, apply it at night and benzoyl peroxide in the morning to prevent inactivation of the retinoid.
How long does it take for benzoyl peroxide to work?
Benzoyl peroxide typically begins to reduce redness and inflammation within a few days to a week. However, noticeable improvement in acne may take 4-6 weeks of consistent use. For optimal results:
Stick to your routine without skipping applications.
Be patient and avoid overusing the product, as this can cause irritation without speeding up results.
Are there any side effects of using benzoyl peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide is generally safe, but it can cause side effects, especially when you first start using it. Common side effects include:
Dryness or Peeling: Use a gentle moisturizer to counteract this.
Redness or Irritation: Start with a lower concentration (2.5%) to minimize these effects.
Bleaching of Fabrics: Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels, pillowcases, or clothing. Use white fabrics or ensure the product dries completely before contact.
Severe irritation or allergic reactions are rare but possible.
Starting Prescription Treatment
When should I see a doctor for acne?
You should consult a TeleTest physician if:
Your acne doesn’t improve after 8-12 weeks of using benzoyl peroxide.
You have moderate to severe acne, including red, inflamed pimples, nodules, or cysts.
Acne is causing significant emotional distress or affecting your quality of life.
You suspect hormonal factors (e.g., menstrual cycle, PCOS) are contributing to your acne.
You have concerns about scarring or dark spots.
Early medical intervention can prevent acne from worsening and reduce the risk of permanent marks.
What are common prescription treatments for acne?
Prescription treatments for acne target multiple causes, including clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. Options include:
Topical Retinoids:
Examples: Tretinoin, adapalene
Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, and prevents new breakouts.
Topical Antibiotics:
Examples: Clindamycin
Benefits: Kills bacteria and reduces redness. Often combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance.
Oral Antibiotics:
Examples: Doxycycline, minocycline (we don't use minocycline any more)
Benefits: Treat moderate to severe acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation.
Benefits: Regulate hormonal fluctuations that cause acne.
A TeleTest physician can help determine the best prescription treatment based on your skin type and acne severity.
How do topical retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene work?
.opical retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work by:
Unclogging Pores: Prevents the buildup of oil and dead skin cells.
Reducing Inflammation: Calms redness and swelling.
Stimulating Skin Renewal: Helps fade acne marks and improves skin texture.
How to Use:
Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin at night.
Use a moisturizer to minimize dryness.
Start every other night to help your skin adjust.
Retinoids can take 6-12 weeks to show results. Consistency is key.
What is clindamycin, and how does it help with acne?
Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic used to reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. It’s often prescribed alongside benzoyl peroxide to enhance effectiveness and prevent bacterial resistance.
Usage Tips:
Apply a thin layer to affected areas once or twice daily.
Avoid combining with products that irritate the skin, like exfoliants.
Clindamycin is effective for inflamed pimples and pustules but should not be used as a standalone treatment for long-term maintenance.
What tests might I need before starting certain treatments?
Most topical acne treatments, such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene) and topical antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin), do not require any testing before use. These treatments are generally safe and can be used without medical monitoring when prescribed appropriately. However, some systemic (oral) treatments do require testing to ensure safety:
Hormonal Therapy (e.g., spironolactone):
Requires blood tests to check kidney function and potassium levels before starting and periodically during treatment.
Isotretinoin:
Requires regular liver function tests and cholesterol monitoring. For women, strict pregnancy prevention measures, including monthly pregnancy tests, are mandatory due to the risk of birth defects.
General Antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline):
Rarely require testing but may need monitoring if used long-term or in patients with pre-existing conditions.
Managing Moderate to Severe Acne
What are oral antibiotics, and when are they used for acne?
Oral antibiotics are medications prescribed to treat moderate to severe acne. They work by:
Reducing acne-causing bacteria: Decreasing Cutibacterium acnes on the skin.
Calming inflammation: Easing redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with inflamed acne lesions.
Commonly prescribed antibiotics include doxycycline, minocycline, and erythromycin. They are typically used alongside topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide and retinoids to enhance results and prevent resistance.
Oral antibiotics are usually prescribed for 3-6 months to avoid long-term side effects.
How long can I safely take oral antibiotics for acne?
Oral antibiotics are generally safe when used for short-term acne management, usually for 3 months. Prolonged use is discouraged to reduce the risk of:
Antibiotic resistance: Bacteria may adapt, making the treatment less effective.
Gut and skin microbiome imbalance: Long-term antibiotics may disrupt healthy bacteria.
To minimize risks, oral antibiotics should always be combined with topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
Can hormonal treatments help with acne?
Yes, hormonal treatments are highly effective for women with moderate to severe acne, especially if the acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations, such as:
Spironolactone: Blocks androgen activity, lowering oil production and reducing acne severity.
These treatments are often used alongside topical therapies for optimal results.
What is spironolactone, and who can use it?
Spironolactone is an oral medication commonly prescribed for women with hormonal acne. It works by blocking androgen receptors, which decreases oil production and reduces inflammation.
Who Can Use It:
Adult women with moderate to severe acne.
Those with acne linked to hormonal factors, such as PCOS or menstrual cycles.
Monitoring:
Before starting spironolactone, blood tests are needed to check kidney function and potassium levels. These tests are repeated periodically during treatment.
Spironolactone is not suitable for men or pregnant women.
When should isotretinoin (i.e. Accutane) be considered for acne treatment?
Isotretinoin (formerly known as Accutane) is a powerful prescription medication for treating severe or resistant acne. It works by:
Reducing oil production: Shrinks sebaceous glands, cutting off the root cause of clogged pores.
Preventing clogged pores: Reduces dead skin buildup.
Killing acne-causing bacteria: Improves inflammation and redness.
Who Should Consider It:
Patients with severe nodular or cystic acne.
Those who haven’t responded to other treatments, such as oral antibiotics or hormonal therapy.
Monitoring Requirements:
Regular blood tests to check liver function and cholesterol levels.
Monthly pregnancy tests for women due to the risk of severe birth defects.
Building a Treatment Plan
Can I combine treatments for better results?
Yes, combining treatments can be highly effective, especially for moderate to severe acne. Combining therapies addresses multiple causes of acne, such as bacteria, clogged pores, and inflammation.
Oral Antibiotic + Topical Treatment: Reduces severe inflammation while maintaining clear skin with a topical therapy.
What should I do if my acne gets worse before it gets better?
Some treatments, especially retinoids, can cause an initial “purge,” where breakouts temporarily worsen as clogged pores clear. This is normal and typically resolves within 4-6 weeks.
How to Manage It:
Stick to your treatment plan consistently.
Use a gentle moisturizer to minimize dryness or irritation.
Avoid picking at your skin, which can worsen inflammation.
If worsening persists beyond 6-8 weeks, consult a TeleTest physician to evaluate your treatment plan.
How long should I stick with a treatment before switching?
Acne treatments take time to work, and visible improvement usually occurs after 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Switching too soon can prevent you from seeing the full benefits of the therapy.
What to Do:
Track your progress with photos or notes.
If your acne hasn’t improved after 12 weeks, consult a TeleTest physician
Are there treatments for acne scars?
Yes, several treatments are available to reduce the appearance of acne scars:
Topical Retinoids: Improve skin texture and fade discoloration over time.
Chemical Peels: Exfoliate the skin, helping with shallow scars and pigmentation.
Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production to improve the appearance of deeper scars.
Laser Treatments: Smooths the skin and reduces redness associated with scars.
These treatments are most effective once your acne is under control.
How do I create an effective skincare routine for acne-prone skin?
An effective routine keeps your skin clear while preventing irritation:
Cleanse: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily.
Treat: Apply active treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids) as prescribed.
Moisturize: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain hydration.
Protect: Apply sunscreen daily to prevent irritation and protect against discoloration.
Consistency is key.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Once my acne clears, do I need to keep treating it?
Yes, maintenance therapy is essential to keep your skin clear and prevent future breakouts. Even after acne has cleared, your skin remains prone to clogged pores and inflammation.
Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces bacteria and minimizes the risk of new breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer and Sunscreen: Keeps skin balanced and protected from irritation.
Stopping all treatments can lead to acne returning. Maintenance routines should be gentle and consistent.
What are the best options for maintaining clear skin?
An effective maintenance routine includes:
Daily Cleansing: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove oil and debris.
Consistent Application of Maintenance Treatments: Apply a retinoid or benzoyl peroxide 2-3 times a week, or as recommended by your doctor.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin daily to prevent hyperpigmentation and irritation from treatments.
Consistency is key to avoiding relapses.
How can I prevent acne from coming back?
Preventing acne requires both a proactive approach and ongoing care:
Stick to your maintenance routine, even after your skin clears.
Avoid triggers like harsh skincare products, over-cleansing, or greasy cosmetics.
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet with minimal high-glycemic foods.
If breakouts begin to return, restart more intensive treatments or adjust your routine as needed.
What should I do if my acne flares up again?
If you experience a flare-up:
Reintroduce treatments you’ve used successfully in the past, like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
Avoid harsh scrubs or over-cleansing, as this can worsen irritation.
Contact a TeleTest physician if the flare persists or worsens to reassess your treatment plan.
Are there treatments to prevent acne scars?
Yes, preventing scars begins with controlling active acne and avoiding picking at lesions. To reduce the risk of scars:
Use retinoids or benzoyl peroxide to prevent inflammation.
Avoid harsh scrubs that can aggravate the skin.
Treat moderate to severe acne early to minimize long-term damage.
If you already have acne scars, consult a specialist to explore options like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments.
Myths and Misconceptions
Does acne mean my skin is dirty?
No, acne is not caused by dirty skin. Acne develops due to a combination of factors, including excess oil (sebum) production, clogged pores, bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes), and inflammation. While dirt and grime can contribute to clogged pores, acne is primarily influenced by internal factors such as hormones and genetics, not external dirt.
In fact, excessive washing or scrubbing your skin too hard can irritate it, strip its natural oils, and worsen acne. Over-cleansing may also trigger more oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the loss of moisture, leading to additional breakouts.
The best way to keep your skin clean without exacerbating acne is to wash your face twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps or physical exfoliants, as they can damage the skin barrier and worsen inflammation. If you wear makeup, look for products labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to avoid clogging pores.
If you are already following a good skincare routine but still experiencing breakouts, consider that the issue may not be related to cleanliness. Acne often requires targeted treatments like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or hormonal therapies for effective management.
Will eating chocolate or greasy foods cause acne?
The belief that chocolate or greasy foods cause acne is a common misconception. While eating these foods doesn’t directly result in acne, diet can influence breakouts in some individuals. Studies suggest that high-glycemic foods, which rapidly raise blood sugar levels, may contribute to acne. These foods include sugary snacks, white bread, pasta, and sweetened beverages. They can trigger a spike in insulin, leading to increased oil production and inflammation, both of which play a role in acne development.
Greasy foods, such as fried items, do not directly cause acne. However, if the oil from these foods comes into contact with your skin, it can clog pores, particularly if you frequently touch your face. Additionally, individuals with sensitivities to dairy may notice that milk or other dairy products exacerbate their acne. This is thought to be linked to hormones present in dairy, which can influence sebum production.
To determine if diet affects your acne, try maintaining a balanced, low-glycemic diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins. If certain foods seem to worsen your skin, consider eliminating them temporarily to see if your acne improves. Remember, the primary causes of acne are hormonal fluctuations, excess oil, and bacteria. For persistent or severe cases, dietary changes alone are unlikely to be sufficient.
Can I use toothpaste to treat pimples?
Toothpaste is not a safe or effective treatment for acne, despite popular belief. Some ingredients in toothpaste, such as baking soda or hydrogen peroxide, may dry out a pimple temporarily. However, these ingredients are not formulated for use on skin and can cause irritation, redness, and even chemical burns. Toothpaste often contains fragrances, menthol, or whitening agents, which can further irritate acne-prone skin.
Effective spot treatments for pimples include products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which are specifically designed to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation, while salicylic acid helps unclog pores and exfoliate the skin. These treatments are widely available over the counter and are much safer than using toothpaste.
It’s also important to avoid popping or picking at pimples, as this can push bacteria deeper into the skin, worsen inflammation, and lead to scarring. Instead, apply a targeted acne treatment directly to the affected area and give it time to work. Most pimples will reduce in size within a few days with appropriate care.
Should I pop pimples to make them go away faster?
No, popping pimples is not recommended and can do more harm than good. Squeezing or picking at a pimple can push bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells deeper into the pore, worsening inflammation and increasing the risk of infection. This can result in more severe breakouts, as well as long-term scarring and discoloration.
Additionally, when you pop a pimple, you damage the surrounding skin, which can lead to prolonged healing times. This is especially true for inflamed or cystic acne, where the lesions are deeper and more sensitive.
What to Do Instead:
Use a spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to target the pimple and reduce inflammation.
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling or a warm compress to help the pimple drain naturally.
Avoid touching your face with unclean hands to minimize the risk of introducing more bacteria.
Acne Treatment Regimens Simplified
Managing acne effectively requires tailoring treatments to its severity. TeleTest physicians follow a stepwise approach, ensuring appropriate therapies are prescribed based on the type and extent of acne. Below are common regimens used for mild, moderate, and severe acne, followed by maintenance options. Each regimen focuses on addressing the core factors of acne, including clogged pores, bacteria, oil production, and inflammation.
Mild Acne Regimens
Mild acne includes whiteheads, blackheads, and occasional small pimples. Prescription treatments focus on combination topical therapies to enhance results and prevent progression.
Winlevi (clascoterone 1%) ($$$) – effective for hormonal acne in both men and women
If no improvement is seen after 8–12 weeks, escalation to moderate acne regimens may be necessary.
Moderate Acne Regimens
Moderate acne presents with more frequent red, inflamed pimples (papules) and pus-filled pimples (pustules). Combination therapies often include oral antibiotics for inflammatory lesions.
Regimen
Morning (AM)
Evening (PM)
Benzaclin + Retinoid
Benzaclin (Clindamycin/BPO)
Adapalene OR
Tretinoin OR
Tazarotene
Combination Products
Clindamycin 1%
Epiduo (Adapalene 0.1% + BPO 2.5%)
TactuPump (Adapalene + BPO 2.5%)
Tazarotene
Oral Antibiotic + Benzaclin + Retinoid
Doxycycline 100 mg + Benzaclin
Adapalene OR
Tretinoin OR
Tazarotene
Oral Antibiotic + Combination Products
Doxycycline 100 mg + Clindamycin 1%
Epiduo (Adapalene 0.1% + BPO 2.5%)
TactuPump (Adapalene 0.1% + BPO 2.5%)
Winlevi (clascoterone 1%)
Applied in the morning
Applied at night
*Minocycline has a risk of causing irreversible skin pigmentation and is now less commonly prescribed, with doxycycline being preferred as a safer alternative.
